The Island Project supports the permanently excluded, the at risk of exclusion and vulnerable, challenging learners aged 9-18.
The Island Project provides bespoke pastoral support and alternative education for junior school children, secondary school children, and NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training). Most learners are at serious risk of underachievement and for most, conventional mainstream education has failed to engage them. Many students who cannot cope with a classroom environment find that they thrive in more therapeutic surroundings, participating in animal-assisted projects and outside of the classroom-based sessions.
The project specialises in developing SEMH (Social, Emotional Mental Health) through the use of outdoor learning, animal-assisted projects and AimVoc Accreditation. The curriculum on offer at The Island Project is diverse and supports pupils to gain lifelong independence skills teaching pupils about much more than animal care. Embedded key skills are fostered daily and include teamwork, listening to others, resilience and developing self-esteem and confidence. SMSC, British Values and PSHE are all taught at the provision allowing pupils to develop their understanding of the world and Cultural Capital.
The farm is based on a 3-acre plot of land located in Draycott, Derby (DE72 3PD). Converted stables and portacabins make up our different learning areas, including two converted containers used as a woodwork workshop, a courtyard for sports and animal training, and a large café with an undercover shelter.
“Our son was a withdrawn teenager, rejected and struggling in many ways in a very difficult phase of life. The love and the acceptance he’s received from staff at the Island and the therapeutic influence of the animals have made such a difference to him in himself and in terms of behaviour and outlook. He has loved it and will miss it hugely. We are very grateful for the Island.”
– Neil (Parent)
The Island Project Farming & Education Centre
Land Opposite Park View
Draycott
DE72 3PD
